Gemini Gains EU Approval to Launch Regulated Crypto Derivatives Platform
Gemini secures MiFID II license from Malta, paving the way for crypto derivatives expansion across the EU.
Gemini, the U.S.-based cryptocurrency exchange founded by Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, has secured a major regulatory milestone in Europe with the approval of a Markets in Financial Instruments Directive II (MiFID II) license from Malta’s Financial Services Authority (MFSA). The license authorizes the firm to launch a crypto derivatives trading platform across the European Union and European Economic Area (EEA).
This regulatory green light, granted to Gemini’s Maltese subsidiary—Gemini Intergalactic EU Artemis—on May 8, marks a significant step in the company's broader strategy to establish itself as a compliant and long-term player in Europe’s digital asset market.
“Once we commence business activities, we will be able to offer regulated derivatives throughout the EU and EEA,” said Mark Jennings, Gemini’s Head of Europe. He added that the company is currently fulfilling the final prerequisites before launching its derivatives products.
Gemini's upcoming derivatives offering will focus on experienced traders, with perpetual futures—contracts that allow speculation on digital assets without expiration—at the forefront. “We’re focused on meeting the remaining conditions to launch these products in a safe and compliant manner,” Jennings emphasized.
The move comes as Gemini deepens its presence on the continent. Earlier this year, the firm designated Malta as its primary regulatory hub for adhering to the forthcoming Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework, a new EU-wide regime aimed at standardizing crypto oversight. The MiFID II license offers Gemini a parallel path to serve derivatives markets while awaiting full MiCA licensing.
Gemini’s strategy highlights its attempt to differentiate itself in a fiercely competitive landscape. Unlike offshore platforms often operating in regulatory limbo, Gemini is betting that European traders will favor a tightly regulated alternative.
The derivatives market has seen intensified competition in recent months. Coinbase announced a $2.9 billion acquisition of Deribit, a major crypto derivatives exchange, while Kraken confirmed a $1.5 billion deal to acquire futures-focused platform NinjaTrader. These moves reflect a broader institutional appetite for derivatives as crypto markets mature.
Though Gemini trails its larger U.S. counterparts in trading volume, it is positioning regulation and compliance as its competitive edge. With its new license in hand, the exchange is poised to offer structured, legally sound crypto derivatives products across Europe in the near future.
